UK companies paid out £56.9bn to investors in 2009, 15% less than in 2008, said Capita Registrars. That amounts to £10bn less in real terms.

And the outlook isn’t great – a large percentage of the dividends paid out were made up by oil companies who are expecting lower oil prices, tighter margins and unfavourable currency trends to squeeze their profits.

So, do the nation a favour – spend the bonus on a new Range Rover.